Today, Andy Andersen, KCEN-DT chief meteorologist has forecast a high of 103 with the heat index being around 106 - and that spells danger.

The heat index is sometimes referred to as the “apparent temperature.” It is a measure of how hot it feels when relative humidity is added to the actual air temperature, according to the National Weather Service.

There is a chance the 1933 record of 102 degrees can be broken today.

Thursday’s temperature will be about 102 degrees according to www.accuweather.com, which would break the record of 101 degrees set in 1987.

With temperatures expected to be so high, safety is of the utmost importance.

Although anyone can suffer from heat-related illness, certain people are at greater risk for falling ill, Thomas Pechal, Temple Fire and Rescue public information officer said. They include the very young, the elderly, people who are overweight and people who are ill or on certain medications.

Pechal said people without air conditioning could also experience heat-related illness.

He said heat illness symptoms could include heavy sweating, muscle cramps, weakness, dizziness, nausea, weak but rapid pulse, and headaches.

Treatment includes moving the person to shade or cool environment and slowly drinking water. If not treated, heat illness can lead to heat stroke causing extremely high body temperature, red and dry skin, confusion, and loss of consciousness and death.

Treatment for heat stroke includes calling 911 for medical assistance, and by immediately cooling the person with water or by fanning, Pechal said.

Since heat-related deaths are preventable, Temple Fire & Rescue, the Texas Department of State Health Services, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offer the following suggestions:

-Stay in an air-conditioned area, either at home or in a public place such as a library, recreation center or mall. If air conditioning is not available, close the shades over the windows and use cross ventilation and fans to cool rooms.

-Check on neighbors who are ill or older at least twice a day. Make sure they are hydrated.

-Electric fans may provide comfort, but when temperatures reach the high 90s, fans will not prevent heat-related illness. Take a cool shower or bath, or move to an air-conditioned place to cool off.

-Drink plenty of fluids and drink them frequently. During heavy exercise in a hot environment, drink two to four glasses (16-32 ounces) of cool fluids per hour. Don’t wait until you are thirsty. When you are thirsty you know the heat is already affecting you.

-Avoid drinks with caffeine, alcohol or sweet flavors.

-Plan outdoor activities early in the morning or late in the evening.

-If you must be outside all day, take plenty of breaks in shady areas.

-Use sun block, wide brimmed hats and light colored, loose fitting clothes.

-Never leave people or pets unattended in a closed, parked vehicle in hot weather.